Study Guide: Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in India
1. INTRODUCTION TO EIA
- Definition: EIA is a structured process to predict environmental consequences of proposed projects
before decisions are made.
- Importance: Ensures sustainable development, prevents environmental damage, supports legal
compliance.
- History in India: Initiated after the 1972 Stockholm Conference; first EIA in 1977 (river valley
projects); formal EIA Notification in 1994; updated in 2006.
- Legal Framework: Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 forms the basis; EIA Notifications under this
act govern the process.
2. MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS IN INDIA
- Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
- Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
- Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
- Forest Conservation Act, 1980
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
- Biological Diversity Act, 2002
Each of these laws interacts with the EIA process to ensure projects meet environmental
safeguards.
3. EIA NOTIFICATIONS
- The 2006 EIA Notification divides projects into Category A and Category B.
- Category A projects are appraised by the central authority (MoEFCC), Category B by SEIAA.
- Key steps: Screening, Scoping, Public Consultation, Appraisal.
- Numerous amendments have refined exemptions, timelines, and compliance requirements.
4. EIA CYCLE & PROCEDURE
Steps include:
1. Screening - Determine need for EIA.
2. Scoping - Identify key environmental issues.
3. Baseline Data Collection - Measure existing environmental status.
4. Impact Prediction - Anticipate project impacts.
5. Mitigation Measures - Propose ways to reduce adverse effects.
6. EMP Preparation - Draft Environmental Management Plan.
7. Public Hearing - Gather community feedback.
8. Submission & Appraisal - Review by expert committees.
9. Decision Making - Approval or rejection.
10. Post-Approval Monitoring - Ensure compliance during operation.
5. EIA REPORTING & EMP PREPARATION
- EIA Report: Baseline data, predicted impacts, mitigation strategies, risk assessment, and
monitoring plan.
- EMP: Specifies action items, budget allocation, responsible agencies, and schedules.
6. CASE STUDY
Example: Stone mining project in Jharkhand.
- Identify biodiversity risks.
- Assess water pollution potential.
- Prepare mitigation strategies and EMP.
7. KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Understand legal framework and procedures.
- Be familiar with major environmental laws.
- Know the EIA cycle thoroughly.